If you’re craving a comforting bowl of Italian-inspired goodness that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful, this Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken, flavorful herbs, cheesy indulgence, and just the right amount of pasta in a rich tomato broth, it’s an effortless way to enjoy all the charm of chicken parmesan in soup form. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or to impress family and friends, this recipe brings together simple ingredients with big, bold flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this soup is surprisingly simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that make this dish shine. From aromatic herbs to melty cheeses, every component contributes to creating that classic chicken parm experience.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften the onions beautifully.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a sweet, savory base that enhances the soup’s depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that irresistible aroma and signature Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a warm, herbaceous note essential to chicken parm tastes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet herbal touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle hint of spice for those who like a little heat.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The rich, tangy heart of this soup that envelops all ingredients in vibrant flavor and color.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Builds the savory liquid base that ties everything together.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Tender and protein-packed, it’s what makes this chicken parm soup satisfyingly hearty.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to round out the taste.
- 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni): Provides comforting bites that soak up the delicious broth.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup to give that nutty, savory signature touch.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Used as a luscious topping that melts and bubbles beautifully.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish): Adds a bright, fresh finish to each bowl.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping): Offers a delightful crunch contrasting the creamy cheeses.
How to Make Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, and add the diced onion. Cooking the onion for a few minutes until it softens releases its natural sweetness, creating the perfect flavor foundation. Then stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Let these cook just until fragrant because this step wakes up all those Italian-inspired flavors that make this soup sing.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring everything together so it forms a beautiful, rich red broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer — this is where the flavors start to meld. Add the shredded chicken along with salt and pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, giving the chicken a chance to soak in all that savory goodness.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Stir in your choice of small pasta, such as ditalini or elbow macaroni, and cook according to the package directions. Usually, this takes about 8 to 10 minutes. The pasta adds a satisfying texture and heartiness to the soup, soaking up those delicious tomato and herb-infused juices.
Step 4: Melt in Parmesan Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted. This step is key to creating that silky, cheesy richness which makes this soup feel just like a warm, cozy version of your favorite chicken parm.
Step 5: Serve with Mozzarella and Crunch
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each portion with shredded mozzarella cheese. Let it melt naturally or pop the bowls under a broiler for a minute or two to get that irresistible bubbly, golden finish. For added texture, sprinkle toasted panko breadcrumbs on top along with chopped fresh parsley or basil. This final flourish transforms every bite into a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and fresh.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil brighten up each bowl and offer a lovely contrast to the hearty tomato base. The panko breadcrumbs add a wonderful crunch that pairs beautifully with the melted mozzarella. These simple garnishes take this soup from delicious to downright unforgettable.
Side Dishes
A crisp green side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly. Garlic bread or warm crusty Italian bread is also a fantastic choice for dipping into the luscious broth. Together, they create a satisfying, well-rounded meal that’s perfect any day of the week.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party, serve the soup in mini Dutch ovens or bread bowls to wow your guests. You could also sprinkle crunchy prosciutto or crispy pancetta on top for an extra flavor punch. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze to each bowl for a hint of sweet tang that pairs beautifully with tomato and cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps well for up to 3 days while maintaining its flavor and texture. The pasta may soak up some broth, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Freezing
This Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe freezes successfully, making it a great option for meal prep. Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. To avoid pasta becoming overly mushy, you can freeze the soup without pasta and add cooked pasta fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Heat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add extra chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Top with fresh mozzarella and breadcrumbs when reheating individual bowls for the best cheesy, crunchy finish.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this soup?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut and adds wonderful flavor and tenderness to the soup, making preparation even easier.
What pasta works best in Chicken Parm Soup?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are ideal because they cook evenly and fit nicely on the spoon along with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add extra vegetables or beans for protein and heartiness while still keeping the delicious flavors.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Yes! The red pepper flakes provide a subtle heat, but you can increase the amount or add a dash of hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
How do I get the breadcrumb topping crispy?
Toast the panko breadcrumbs separately in a skillet with a little olive oil until golden brown, then sprinkle over the melted mozzarella. Alternatively, broil the topped soup bowls for a few minutes for a bubbly, crispy finish.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe is truly a winner when you want something cozy, cheesy, and bursting with classic Italian flavors without any stress. It’s simple to make, full of comforting ingredients, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. I encourage you to give it a try and discover how quickly this soup becomes a favorite go-to in your kitchen.
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Easy Chicken Parm Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Chicken Parm Soup is a comforting, hearty dish combining tender shredded chicken, savory tomato broth, and classic Italian seasonings. Enhanced with Parmesan and melted mozzarella cheese, and topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fresh herbs, it captures the flavors of traditional chicken Parmesan in a cozy, satisfying soup perfect for any day of the year.
Ingredients
Sauce and Broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
Soup Base
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
Cheeses and Toppings
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Chicken: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the shredded cooked chicken, salt, and black pepper. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: Stir in the small pasta. Continue to cook according to the pasta package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
- Melt the Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and is well incorporated into the soup, giving it a rich texture.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese and allow it to melt naturally or place under the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a bubbly, golden topping. Optionally sprinkle toasted panko breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy your comforting Chicken Parm Soup!
Notes
- For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Broiling the mozzarella cheese is optional but adds a delicious golden crust.
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Substitute gluten-free pasta to make the soup gluten-free.
- For a lower-fat version, reduce cheese quantities or use part-skim cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
